A key component of our success as a Sheriff's Department is our very active Reserve Deputy Force.

Each Reserve Deputy must complete a training course certifying them as a Law Enforcement Officer meeting the requirements of the Mississippi Board of Standard and Training before they are put into service. Additionally every reserve deputy is offered the same availabilty to all training provided by the Sheriff's Office

The Reserve Deputy Program was first organized in Jan. of 2000 to supplement our regular paid deputy staff, to provide security at school functions such as sports activities and provide extra manpower at special events. Reserve deputiesalso patrol and work in the county as any other deputy does.

The reserve deputies work with the Bay Springs Corp of Engineers to help provide a safe and family oriented area at Bay Springs Beach during the summer.

This increased manpower gives a higher visiblity and law enforcement presence in our county.

Reserve Chief Ken Shackelford has headed this element of the Sheriff's Office since it's inception in Jan. 2000.